Mahathir: Malaysia's Prime Ministers Will Only Be Allowed 10 Years Maximum In Power
The term limit awaits an amendment of the Federal Constitution.
By Jia Vern Tham — 18 Oct 2018, 06:03 PM
Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, who previously served for 22 years, announced that Malaysia's prime ministers, menteris besar, and chief ministers will only be allowed to serve a maximum of two terms
"The term limit of the posts of prime minister, menteri besar, and chief minister will be limited to two terms," Mahathir reiterated in the Dewan Rakyat earlier today, 18 October.
According to Malay Mail, he made the announcement while tabling the mid-term review of the 11th Malaysia Plan in Parliament as part of the government's efforts in political reform.
Mahathir added that the prime minister will also not be allowed to hold any other portfolio
Mahathir had faced backlash for announcing himself as the Education Minister in May.
His decision was not in line with Pakatan Harapan's manifesto, which stipulates that a prime minister is not allowed to hold any other portfolios.
He eventually appointed Dr. Maszlee Malik for the post.
The Prime Minister then expressed confidence in getting two-thirds of the Dewan Rakyat to amend the Federal Constitution for the term limit
"I think we can convince some of them (opposition). It is also in their interest to support (some of the amendments)," Mahathir was quoted as saying by Malay Mail.
He also revealed his plan to amend a number of other laws involving the Constitution, but did not elaborate further.